Lightly Engaging in Battle

A poisonous insect stings because it relies on the venom in its tail; soldiers can fight bravely because they rely on adequate preparation. Therefore, only when weapons are sharp and armor is strong do people dare to enter battle lightly. If armor is not strong and closely fitted, it is no different from fighting bare-chested; if one shoots an arrow and cannot hit the target, it is no different from having no arrows; if one hits but cannot penetrate, it is no different from having no arrowheads; if reconnaissance is not careful and thorough, it is no different from having no eyes; if the commander is not brave, it is no different from having no commander. Modern Application:This chapter does not discuss how to make people brave; it discusses the material and structural conditions on which bravery depends. Zhuge Liang’s logic is very direct: a poisonous insect dares to sting because it truly has venom; soldiers dare to engage lightly because their armor and weapons are truly reliable. Courage itself is not a virtue that can be cultivated in isolation; it is a......